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‘Many of these people are extremely afraid to come forward with their stories, in a close-knit world of classical music in which careers are dependent upon the whims of a few powerful individuals.

‘A full independent inquiry into sexual and physical abuse in classical music education during this time is now absolutely paramount.’

Guilty: Michael Brewer was found guilty of indecently assaulting Frances after she won a place the music school where he was choirmaster. His ex-wife Hillary Brewer joined in with the abuse after Frances turned 18

Greater Manchester Police says it wants to hear from anyone who may have fallen victim to sexual abuse at the music school.

It has also defended its care of Frances Andrade during the trial at Manchester Crown Court.

The trial heard sexual abuse was ‘rife’ at elite music academy Chetham’s. Mrs Andrade told the court: ‘It was normal for us. Several friends of mine had been raped.’

Mr Brewer was director of music at Chetham’s when he began abusing his victim, then 14, in 1978.

Mrs Andrade was found dead at her Surrey home after giving evidence against the Brewers. Jurors were not told about her death until after they found the pair guilty of six counts of sexual assault.

Brewer and his ex-wife were remanded in custody and will be sentenced at a later date.